Traditional Chinese Medicine views the human body as an intricate system of organs connected by network of pathways through which energy (Qi) flows. This network is known as meridians. Total wellness depends on smooth flow of Qi through these meridians. When the flow is blocked or disrupted, pain, and illness result. Acupuncture restores the flow of Qi by inserting fine specialized needles at specific acupuncture points on these meridians to stimulate the flow and unblock stagnation. As the flow is restored the organ function is normalized, resulting in gradual return to well being. Acupuncture treatment usually lasts 20-30 minutes, and may combine modalities listed below.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture: acupuncture needles, unlike hypodermics, are ultra thin and flexible allowing for nearly painless insertion. The sensation felt during the manipulation is the activation of the meridian Qi. In a typical treatment any number of needles may be inserted at various locaitions. Treatments usually last from 20 to 30 minutes, with one or two stimulation proceedures during that time to heighten the Qi sensation and activate the meridian Qi. During the treatments, many patients doze off into a restful slumber or a state of complete relaxation. Acupuncture needles are disposable and are never used more than once.

Cupping

Cupping: This ancient modality of treatment involves the use of sterilized glass jars (cups) which are applied to the skin immediately after dowsing the insides with burning alcohol, this depletes the air inside the cup creating a vacuum suction to the skin at specific therapeutic locations selected by the physician. Cupping helps to increase blood circulation and stimulates flow of Qi and blood in the specific region. There are many manipulation tecniques for cupping including stationary cups, walking cups and flash cupping. Cupping is used for local injury, pain, headaches, and even respiratory infections. Many skin conditions including eczema and acne are treated using cupping.

Moxibustion

Moxibustion: Another ancient treatment modality applies focused heat from a slow burning specialised herbal compound over various specific acupuncture points to stimulate the flow of Qi, increase the Yang energy and stimulate healing. Moxibustion can be stationary, placed on the head of the needle and allowed to burn inducing heat through the needle shaft into the acupuncture point, Manual manipulation where the burning stick of moxa is moved at close distance to the skin along the meridians and acupoints, and direct moxa where a very small amount of Moxa is placed on a slice of Ginger or Aconite inducing heat throught the herb into the acupoint. Moxibustion is often used to treat traumatic pain, weak, debilitating conditions, gynecological disorders and lack of energy.